What is behind the communal clashes in Nepal?
Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah has appealed for calm following communal clashes between Hindu and Muslim groups in the country's southern plains. The violence, which began in Sunsari district, has resulted in three deaths and led to the imposition of curfews across several districts.
Why it matters
The unrest threatens social harmony in Nepal's border regions and highlights the challenges of managing religious tensions in a multi-ethnic society.
After days of silence and mounting criticism over his delayed response, Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah on Thursday (July 30, 2026) addressed the nation, urging calm and restraint as authorities reported another death following clashes that triggered unrest across the country’s southern plains.
A curfew, initially imposed in Dewangunj Rural Municipality of Sunsari district, where the violence first erupted on Sunday, has since been extended to several districts, including Sarlahi, Dhanusha, Siraha and Saptari. The death toll since has risen to three.
In his address, Mr. Shah said the government is treating the violence in Sunsari and other districts with the utmost seriousness. “I appeal to all citizens, political parties, civil society, religious leaders, and the media to exercise restraint and help preserve peace, social harmony, and national unity,” Mr. Shah said. “I urge everyone not to spread rumours, misinformation, or hate speech, and to rely only on official information.”
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